Reggie Jackson is slowly returning to his old self while the Detroit Pistons battle for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Coach Stan Van Gundy believes that Jackson managed to bounce back after struggling to regain his rhythm earlier this season.

“There’s no question he’s playing better now,” Van Gundy said. “He’s playing better, he’s more in his comfort zone, I think he’s more connected with his teammates now. So that’s a good thing going down the stretch here.”

Reggie Jackson missed the first 21 games of the 2016-17 NBA season after suffering a left knee injury. In his return, most people noticed the difference with his performance which was quite understandable for a player who just came back from injury. However, Jackson’s dismal performance had a major effect on the team as it cost them some of their games.

Before the Feb. 23 deadline, the Pistons tried to move him but failed to find a trade partner. Ish Smith completely outplayed Jackson in the month of February, leading to the speculations that he could replace him as the Pistons’ starting point guard soon. However, coach Stan Van Gundy still believes that it’s better for Smith to run their second unit.

After the trade deadline, Reggie Jackson worked hard to bring back his old self. Van Gundy and Jackson’s teammates noticed the improvement on their game against the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite some inconsistencies, Jackson continues to prove he deserves to stay in Detroit.

Reggie Jackson shines in Pistons’ win over New York Knicks

In their recent victory against the New York Knicks, Jackson established an impressive performance on both ends of the floor. The 26-year-old point guard posted 19 points, eight assists, three rebounds, one block, and one steal. Coach Stan Van Gundy believed that it was one of Jackson’s best defensive games of the season.

“He’s really starting to find himself,” Pistons center Andre Drummond said. “What it boils down to is defensively, where you need to be. He’s making an effort offensively to get everybody involved and get his shots off as well, too. He looks like a different player out there, and it’s fun to play with him.”

The Pistons won four of their last five games and currently in the 7th spot in the Eastern Conference. They need to continue winning games in order to secure a playoff spot as they are only one win ahead of the Milwaukee Bucks, Chicago Bulls, and the Miami Heat.